Road Signs

Indiana Traffic Signal Rules and Meanings

3 min read

Understanding traffic signals is essential for safe and lawful driving in Indiana. This guide covers the meanings of various traffic signals, the legal requirements associated with them, and best practices for navigating intersections.

Standard Traffic Signals

Green Light

Meaning: Proceed through the intersection or make a turn unless prohibited by a sign.
Legal Requirement: Yield to pedestrians lawfully within the intersection or an adjacent crosswalk, and to other vehicles already in the intersection.

Yellow Light

Meaning: The green movement is ending, and a red signal will be displayed immediately.
Legal Requirement: Stop if it is safe to do so. If unable to stop safely, proceed with caution.

Red Light

Meaning: Stop at a clearly marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.
Legal Requirement: Remain stopped until a green signal is displayed. Right turns on red are permitted after a complete stop, unless prohibited by a sign. Left turns on red are allowed only when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. Yield to pedestrians and other traffic.

Arrow Signals

Green Arrow

Meaning: Proceed in the direction of the arrow.
Legal Requirement: Yield to pedestrians and other traffic lawfully using the intersection.

Yellow Arrow

Meaning: The protected turning time is ending.
Legal Requirement: Prepare to stop; the signal will soon turn red.

Red Arrow

Meaning: Do not proceed in the direction of the arrow.
Legal Requirement: Stop and remain stopped until a green arrow or green signal is displayed.

Flashing Signals

Flashing Red Light

Meaning: Equivalent to a stop sign.
Legal Requirement: Stop completely and proceed when safe, observing right-of-way rules.

Flashing Yellow Light

Meaning: Proceed with caution.
Legal Requirement: Slow down and be alert; yield to pedestrians and other vehicles as necessary.

Flashing Yellow Arrow

Meaning: Permitted turn after yielding.
Legal Requirement: You may turn in the direction of the arrow after yielding to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

Non-Functioning Traffic Signals

Meaning: Treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
Legal Requirement: Stop at the intersection and proceed when it is safe, following right-of-way rules.

Additional Resources

For more information on Indiana's traffic laws and driving regulations, consider the following resources:

Staying informed about traffic signal rules and meanings is crucial for safe driving and compliance with Indiana laws.